Tottenham Transfer News: Spurs Sign Lewis Holtby Early from Schalke

Tottenham have signed Lewis Holtby from German club Schalke with immediate effect, according to the club's official website.

The 22-year-old German, who already has a few caps for his ultra-competitive national team, was originally set to come to White Hart Lane in the summer.

However, after Spurs midfielder Sandro suffered a season-ending injury in early January, Tottenham's needs changed dramatically.

After failing twice in bids to get Holtby to come sooner, Spurs finally succeeded to get the move pushed through this weekend.

According to the Guardian, the deal was made for a £1.25 million transfer fee—a relative bargain, considering the potential of the young man.

Holtby seemed thrilled with the move and excited about this new opportunity in a statement made after the deal was made public:

Tottenham are a top club and I'm fulfilling my dream. Negotiations with Schalke were initially advanced, but then I looked over it all carefully again. I have spoken to André Villas-Boas and I am confident in his plans.

Where should Holtby fit into the side for the rest of the season?

Immediate starterEase into starting roleAdd depth on the benchSubmit Votevote to see results

Where should Holtby fit into the side for the rest of the season?

Immediate starter

38.7%

Ease into starting role

55.2%

Add depth on the bench

6.1%

Total votes: 230

Lewis will now add some much-needed depth to the center of Tottenham's midfield, yet may not step directly into the starting 11. After all, Scott Parker and MoussaDembele are experienced players who will not easily give their spots over to a newcomer.

Still, Spurs supporters should be excited about the signing, especially coming off the dismal display in Sunday's FA Cup loss to Leeds United.

Hopefully, Lewis Holtby can give Tottenham a shot in the arm and help his side recover from whatever hangover they were feeling on Sunday.